Why goal setting can ruin your life

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how setting goals and focusing on acquisition and achievement in life can lead to disappointment and misery, whereas focusing on the guidance of one's inner wisdom can lead to happiness and fulfilment.

Design/methodology/approach

The limitations and drawbacks of goal setting are outlined and case studies are provided to support this. Suggestions are provided for listening to one's intuition and allowing the Universe to direct one's life.

Findings

Both the author and a client are used as case studies that support the value of allowing intuition to be the guiding force in one's life. In both instances there is greater peace and satisfaction in life and the feeling that life is working out easily for both individuals.

Practical implications

This approach can be successfully used in any area of one's life and is valuable to people from all walks of life. However not everyone is willing to adopt this approach as it requires a willingness to let go of the desire to control one's life and in so doing, allow in what is really meant for us.

Social implications

This training to date has been presented to open audiences, executives and entrepreneurs with good results. It is clear that these ideas could also be of value to those leading larger organisations and in other key roles of leadership.

Originality/value

These techniques originate from the author's study of “A Course in Miracles”. The author has adopted its teaching within her own work and this, she believes, to be original ‐ although there are other coaches who may support such thinking with their clients. This thinking is of value to anyone who wishes to reduce anxiety and stress, feel more fulfilled in life and improve their relationships – both professional and personal.

Citation

Alexander, S. (2012), "Why goal setting can ruin your life", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 44 No. 1, pp. 51-55. https://doi.org/10.1108/00197851211193435